Description
This easy classic homemade chili is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for a cozy meal. Made with ground beef, kidney beans, tomatoes, and a blend of spices, it simmers to perfection in just 50 minutes. Ideal for family dinners, this chili is comforting, rich, and packed with traditional southwestern flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 cans kidney beans (15 ounces each), drained and rinsed
- 1 can diced tomatoes (15 ounces)
- 1 can tomato sauce (15 ounces)
- 1 cup beef broth
Spices
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes, optional, to taste
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef: In a large pot over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned. Drain any excess fat if necessary to prevent greasiness.
- Sauté the vegetables: Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper to the pot. Cook and stir occasionally for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Add beans, tomatoes, and spices: Stir in the drained kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili powder, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Pour in the beef broth and mix everything thoroughly.
- Simmer the chili: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken slightly.
- Serve hot: Once simmered, ladle the chili into bowls and serve immediately. Garnish optionally with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or shredded cheese for extra flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a spicier chili, increase the amount of chili powder and add more red pepper flakes.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- To make it vegetarian, omit the meat and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- Letting the chili rest for a few hours or overnight improves the flavor even more.
- Serve with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: classic chili, homemade chili, ground beef chili, kidney beans chili, easy chili recipe, stovetop chili
